The sophomore album of singer/songwriter Adina Howard, “Welcome to Fantasy Island” was released digitally on February 19th, 2021. Rhino Records has obtained the rights to the album, and now available for all to enjoy. The album features Missy Elliot, Jamie Foxx, Bizzy Bone, and K-Ci Hailey. Productions/writing from Babyface, Missy, DJ Quik, Jamie Foxx, and more.
“(Freak) And U Know It” was the first single from the album, “T-Shirt & Panties” feat. Jamie Foxx was the second single before shelved. A potential third single could’ve been “Crank Me Up” feat. Missy Elliot. A definite Billboard hit with the emerging producer/songwriter/rapper who was set to release her debut album in the summer of 1997, Supa Dupa Fly. It has an inviting chorus and sultry production, a stand-out record from the album. “Personal Freak” features Bizzy Bone (Bone Thugz N Harmony). The rhythmic bass synths are hypnotizing.
“All About U” is so melodic with a free flowing chorus. Even with the heavy hip hop snare loop, it still feels soulful with the warm piano chords on top of the beat. Such a signature DJ Quik production. Easily could’ve been on any 90’s movie soundtrack. “Sexual Needs” is co-written by Adina. It has high replay value, and flows perfectly to the next track on the album. “I’ll Be Damned If I Apologize” feat. K-Ci Hailey is a great balance of their voices together. “Take Me Home” gives a pinch of a jazz feel or some music critics would call Neo-Soul. Sensual soul is the take home word for that track. “Lay Him Down” is melodically infectious, co-written by the legendary Babyface. Ending the album with “Ain’t No Need” was the right decision. Superb mid-tempo, another production from DJ Quik. Another track that could’ve been on a movie film soundtrack.
This album definitely would’ve surpassed Howard’s debut album, Do You Wanna Ride? perfectly. Welcome to Fantasy Island is conceptually solid. Songs are sequenced to perfection and dazzling writing and production from legends like DJ Quik and Missy Elliot. One word to describe this album, alluring. It was an unspoken rule in the music industry, that your second album had to match the success of the first. Highly unfair this album didn’t get to flourish properly. Hopefully with the digital release of Welcome to Fantasy Island it will get to rise from the Phoenix, and get its deserved second musical life.
Welcome to Fantasy Island is available on all digital outlets.